R&B singer Toni Braxton is threatening to sue concert promoters in South America after they conned fans into attending a show purportedly featuring the star - only to discover the headliner was an "imitation act."

The Unbreak My Heart hit-maker was reportedly touted to play a gig in the Republic of Suriname last Friday night, but the crowd turned violent in the early hours of Saturday when devotees realized they had been duped - and an impersonator, named Trina Johnson, was singing instead.

According to local reports, fans began rioting and threw bottles at the stage, before looting bars at the show's venue. Johnson, who had to be rescued by security guards, was left stunned by the chaos - because she insists her contract specifically states she was hired as an "imitation act" and was unaware concert-goers were led to think otherwise.

Authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the event hoax, but the gig promoter, Angel Ventura from Events 4 Suriname, and his assistant have disappeared, fleeing without paying local sponsors, organizations and stage personnel hired for the concert.

Police spokesman Humphrey Naarden says, "This is a clear cut case of fraud." And Braxton is consulting with lawyers to file an official complaint against the promotions company for "victimizing" her fans.

A representative for the star tells TMZ.com, "Toni Braxton is aware of what happened and is obviously displeased with what happened. She regrets that both she and her fans have been victimized by this hoax. Ms. Braxton's attorneys are exploring the legal ramifications."

-Click to View Gallery

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)